Huntsville Botanical Garden

Huntsville Botanical Garden, off I-565 exit 15 then .5 mi. e. to 4747 Bob Wallace Ave., comprises 112 acres of gardens featuring day lilies, ferns, trilliums, herbs, vegetables and aquatic plants. In the Garden Railway, a miniature train chugs through a landscaped European village. The Garden of Hope is a peaceful respite planted by and benefiting those with cancer.

Native northern Alabama wildflowers embellish a nature trail. Also on the grounds is the 9,000-square-foot open-air Butterfly House, open May through September. In addition there are eight children's gardens, including a storybook garden, a bamboo garden and a space garden. Seasonal festivals are held throughout the year.

Picnicking is permitted. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.